Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice-President and NPP Flagbearer, has publicly called for the discontinuation of a prosecution. This prosecution was initiated in his name against an NDC organiser in Agona West. The organiser had publicly insulted the former Vice-President.
Dr. Bawumia clarified that he neither lodged a complaint nor supported the arrest of any Ghanaian over speech. This decisive move comes at a time when speech is being criminalized through the persecution and prosecution of citizens. His action places democratic values and national unity above personal grievance.
This stance aligns with Ghana's broader democratic aspirations and its commitment to freedom of expression. The country has a history of robust political discourse, sometimes marked by intense exchanges. Dr. Bawumia's intervention reinforces the importance of protecting civil liberties within this context.
Respected journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni praised Dr. Bawumia's action. Manasseh noted that Dr. Bawumia, as Vice-President, endured constant abuse for eight years without initiating arrests. This track record lends credibility to his current call for tolerance and adherence to democratic principles.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the answer to offensive speech is better speech, and truth, not handcuffs or courtrooms. He is now asking the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to uphold this principle. This includes discontinuing the prosecution of the young man involved in the case.
This call extends beyond the immediate case. Dr. Bawumia advocates for a different kind of politics to advance Ghana's participatory democracy. He stated that Ghana’s democracy strengthens when citizens, including opponents, can speak freely without fear.
His intervention demonstrates leadership and forgiveness towards the young man. He urges all political actors to focus energy on issues that matter to Ghanaians. These issues include jobs, the cost of living, digital transformation, and national development.
Dr. Bawumia's timely intervention, amidst the criminalization of speech, signals that Ghana’s democracy is bigger than any individual. Freedom of expression must be protected, even when uncomfortable. This also reminds citizens that free speech requires respect for opponents' dignity.
The message from the NPP Flagbearer is clear: respect free speech, argue ideas, and compete on records, not reprisals. While citizens must be responsible in their speech, leaders must not revert to oppressive days of criminalizing speech. Dr. Bawumia believes this approach will strengthen Ghana's democracy.